AZT triphosphate TFA (3'-Azido-3'-deoxythymidine-5'-triphosphate TFA) is a active triphosphate metabolite of Zidovudine (AZT). AZT triphosphate TFA exhibits antiretroviral activity and inhibits replication of HIV. AZT triphosphate TFA also inhibits the DNA polymerase of HBV. AZT triphosphate TFA activates the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway[1][2][3].

Treatment with 100 μM Zidovudine (AZT) for 48h disrupts the mitochondrial tubular network via accumulation of AZT triphosphate (AZT-TP) in H9c2 cells. AZT triphosphate accumulation causes downregulation of Opa1 and upregulation of Drp1. AZT triphosphate causes mitochondrial dysfunction, increases the production of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS), and impairs the balance of the mitochondrial quality control system in H9c2 cell model established from rat embryonic myoblasts[1].